A top chef has given his verdict on the most “overrated” UK restaurant which prides itself on providing family friendly meals on a budget. With 246 locations across England, Wales and Scotland, Hungry Horse are renowned across the country for their value-for-money meals.
Owned by Greene King, the chain offers food deals every single day of the week – from Monday grills to two for one burgers on a Friday. However, there is one section of the extensive menu that has failed to impress Steven Smith, chef patron of Japanese restaurant KAJI in Manchester. With flames roaring in the open kitchen, Steven is the mastermind behind KA and was formerly chef-patron and owner of an award-winning gastropub.
But the expert was left unimpressed with the Hungry Horse’s carvery, calling it the “most overrated” and not understanding why people bother going there.
He told Sky News:”The most overrated restaurant is…Hungry Horse Carvery. You can eat well on a budget, so I don’t understand why people still choose to go there.”
The chain’s roast offers pub goers a roast and a drink for £11, with customers able to choose from hand-carved topside of beef, roast Turkey or their new vegetable tart.
Those who are feeling really hungry can add pigs in blankets, cauliflower cheese and extra roasties or Yorkies from 99p.
However, Rudy’s Pizza, a Manchester-born pizza chain, which specialises in Neopolitan-style pies, has caught the eye of Steven.
Naming it his favourite restaurant chain Steven said: “You know what you’re gonna get, fantastic price, quick service. I’d probably order one of their specials, but you also can’t go wrong with their classic margherita.”
Ranked one of the world’s best the pizzeria now has four spots in London, with 23 venues across the UK. In November 2023 it was ranked as one of the best pizzas in the world, according to global travel site Big 7 Travel.
Their dough is made freshly in house and topped with ingredients from Naples. This includes San Marzano tomatoes grown on fields at the foot of Mount Vesuvius, and traditional Fior di Latte mozzarella.